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The Grapevine (6/24/16): Malice In Vegas

Good morning, and this is your daily Grapevine! This section of Smark Henry is where we round up all the founded and unfounded rumors abound the pro wrestling scene that you may have missed over the evening.

We've got a semi-new update on Roman Reigns (and Dean Ambrose):

Even though WWE knew Roman Reigns violated the Wellness Policy since late last week, the decision to have Dean Ambrose win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at Money in the Bank was a "late change." It's also not so clear whether it was because of the violation, or just because they wanted to pull the trigger. It definitely looks like they waited until after RAW to suspend him, as they would for other stars. As of SmackDown there seem to be no plans to change the Battleground main event, a triple threat for the WWE World Heavyweight Champion between the former members of the Shield. (Source: WON)

We say: There we have it—looks as though Roman is being protected through all of this. Perhaps, then, it could point to some clue about the nature of his violation. Is it as innocuous as just failing to send a urine sample to the company? We feel like if it were a bigger violation, like actually taking performance enhancement drugs, he would have been immediately stripped of his title shot.

Cody Rhodes and WWE have apparently had recent discussions. However, this isn't for a return; it's possibly a Legends contract-like deal that would allow WWE to use Cody Rhodes's likeness as either himself or Stardust, and Cody to benefit from it. No news on him returning to the company. (Source: WON)

We say: Man, other former WWE wrestlers (who aren't legends or anything) would kill for such a deal. It should actually be standard for alumni, considering how much WWE gives them exposure through merch, toys, video games, and the Network.

It was reported that Natalya might be leaving the company once her contract expires, but she is actually signed for a long time. She went to Twitter to deny the reports, and the Wrestling Observer corroborated this update. (Source: WON)

We say: Well, that does make sense—her heel turn at Money in the Bank does pretty much give her a refresher she needs.